JHAPA, Nov 26: Bird researcher Devendra Kharel has spotted a 'green pigeon' at Mechinagar, Jhapa. Kharel informed that its common  English name is 'green imperial pigeon'.

The scientific name of the bird is 'dukula ania'. The unique bird was found on a simal tree at Mechinagar Municipality-7. The bird is the first of its species in Nepal, he claimed.

Similarly, the Bird Conservation Association and writer of the book on birds Dr Hemsagar Baral also confirmed the finding of a new bird in the country.  

"When I was studying birds with field visits two days back, I saw four unique birds perched on a Simal tree. They were like pigeons," Kharel shared with the National News Agency (RSS), adding that he immediately sent the photo of the bird to the Bird Conservation Association and ornithologist Dr Baral. They also confirmed it to be the green pigeon and it was the first time such a bird was found in Nepal, according to him.

Kharel, a resident of Mechinagar-6, has been involved in observation and conservation of birds for five years. He takes photographs of birds reaching various districts including Ilam, Sunsari and Chitwan and raising public awareness about the conservation of birds.

There is an official record that Nepal has 886 species of birds. But, the green pigeon is not included in this list. Kharel said the record should now be updated to 887.

The green pigeon is about 10 centimeters longer than the pigeon. It is double the size of dove and bigger than a pigeon. The green pigeon's wings are bright green.

Experts say the availability of green pigeon is a huge achievement in terms of bird conservation and bird tourism.

 
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